1 lb frozen cut green beans
3 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon beef soup base (optional)
1-2 cloves garlic, mashed
1/2 teaspoon Wondra flour
pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup blanched sliced or slivered almonds (optional)

Do not thaw beans before cooking. Use a heavy saucepan with a tight-fitting cover.

Bring the water, butter and mashed garlic to a boil in the saucepan (or use beef broth instead of water).

Add the frozen beans and cover tightly; reduce heat and allow beans to steam 3-4 minutes. Stir in Wondra flour to thicken, and beef soup base (if using). Add red pepper flakes, honey, and salt and pepper, to taste.

Add almonds, if desired, for a variation.

Cook over low heat, covered, until "butter sauce" has thickened slightly and beans are nearly tender (not mushy).

Serve as a side with beef dishes.

Another variation is to add finely minced white onions or shallots to the steaming water along with the garlic, for added flavor.

Submitted by: CM